It's becoming clear to me that one of two things is happening regarding the Carb Day concert announcement: One, it is SOOO awesome that to avoid a raucous and potentially dangerous stampede of people overrunning the ticketing office, they just can't release the band name until proper security and safety preparations have been set; orrrr, Two, they haven't found a 'suitable' act yet.
Being in a somewhat pessimistic mode regarding the Speedway's leadership, I tend to think the latter is the odds-on favorite of being closest to the truth. In my typical way, I would like to assist by humbly submitting some possible acts for consideration:
1. The Who. I realize they're coming off a less-than-stellar appearance at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. I realize they've lost half of the originals. Their best days are clearly behind them. As a fan, I am well aware of all of this. They are in their mid-60s after all and still can kick ass so I just want them to do one, nice, tight, generation-spanning, show of ass-kicking rock-n-roll lasting one glorious hour (not that halftime medley crap). Six songs; My Generation, I Can't Explain, The Real Me, You Better You Bet, Baba O'Riley, Who Are You, and finish with of 'Won't Get Fooled Again'. I want to hear Roger scream, live, one last time. What could have you more amped up for the rest of the weekend than that? I can't imagine short of something that involves 'pharmaceuticals'.
2. There isn't a #2. The Who is it for 2010, end of.
PS Whether you like Queen or not, if your neck hair doesn't stand up starting at the 4:15 mark of the SOOO awesome video link, you likely wouldn't appreciate 33 cars roaring down on Lap 1 of the Indy 500 (be sure to click the option to watch "Lap 1" in 720HD), Just sayin'.
Winter provides an unusual opportunity to see the speedway in its dormancy.
Part of a work-related responsibility is to travel to Indy four times a year and at least three of those trips will involve a waypoint through the Museum and gift shop. In typical fashion yesterday, I had stopped through on my way out of town and, despite missing the museum closing time, visited the recently remodeled (and very nice) gift shop. The staff was typically friendly, helpful, and even chatty. I enjoy this little interlude while perusing the new stock and looking for kids gifts (that they don't already have).
On my way out of the building, I noticed traces of snow on the track, near the walls in turn 1, the south chute, and turn 2. I stopped in my tracks, struck at how I had never noticed this before. Maybe I've never see it with snow present. Very odd indeed I thought with some melting areas recalling the infamous weepers that would crop up nearly every race weekend in turn 3. I also thought of a promotion photo used on the IMS website a few years ago with the still gorgeous old #32 Marmon Wasp on the snow-covered, front straight and how unusual that seemed.
It also got my thoughts turned to the warmth of May and what lies ahead. As I drove out I recalled that Al Unser once said he got chills every time he drives under the tunnel entering the track.
I got them entering and leaving.
Dear Board of Directors - Hulman and Company:
As a native Hoosier and lifetime Indy 500 fan (primarily and Indycar Series supporter second despite them being close relatives), I track with great passion the sport's changes as how they may affect the Indy 500 first, and the remainder of the sport next. Mr. Tony George's resignation from the board is the final shovel of "not good" that has tipped the scales for me from optimist to pessimist regarding the future of IMS and the Indy 500.
This recent bit of news is troubling to me, because I am optimistic by nature, but I now have an insurmountable fear that no one is left who has the passion, vision, and desire to carry it forward in a manner which allows it to not merely survive, but thrive. Surely, your privately-owned, family business must realize it has generations of a vast public who personally identify with (and in some cases even gave their life for) this event, it's history, and the grounds. The staggering popularity of The 500 and it's history certainly are evidence of that. I understand I own precisely 0.00% of the company's stock however I am mentally and emotionally invested in the place which is worth more than a little.
From this meager platform, I ask the board to please give us, loyal 'lifers' some sort of idea what the heck your plan is for this place.
It is yours in ownership. It is also mine in heart and soul. Understand me, your loyal fan, and do NOT toy with it. What I bring to you shows up as positive numbers on your Balance Sheet if that is all you understand.
If you can understand the above, then understand these concerns:
- Who will be the passionate visionary to energize and elevate this place?
- Who among you is dedicated to the 500 to your very core?
- Who will be the talisman with tireless diligence to an entity whose value as a national treasure is far greater than the sum of its parts.
- Who is next?
You will note that I do not address the 'How' or 'What' is next, but 'Who' is next. This is by far the most critical component in my opinion.
Who is next?
My concerns are growing, my patience wearing thin.
Instead of a lifetime of dedication from me (your most loyal fans), you must know that you have now relegated yourself to a year-by-year basis.
I strongly advise not screwing it up.
